Brownington Woman Accused of Murdering Husband in Car Crash

June 28, 2011

CHARLESTON, VT â€“ Christine Billis, 42 of Brownington, has been arrested for first degree homicide in the death of her husband, Charles Billis, 57 of Brownington, following a Vermont State Police investigation into the September 22, 2009 vehicle accident on Line Farm Road and VT RT 5A in Charleston.
Christine Billis sustained injuries and was taken to North Country Hospital for treatment. Charles Billis, the passenger, was trapped in the vehicle and had to be extricated. Charles Billis was then taken to North Country Hospital where he was pronounced dead.
The initial crash investigation conducted at the scene by the Vermont State Police indicated that the Billis' vehicle was traveling south on VT Route 5A when it struck a large pine tree near the intersection of Line Farm Road.
The crash occurred during the day, under clear skies, and dry road conditions. Speed was not considered a factor by the investigating trooper; however Charles Billis was not wearing a seat belt. At the time of the crash, it was believed that the driver may have experienced a medical episode that might have contributed to the crash.
Recently, information became available regarding the investigation, which led police to believe that the crash may not have been accidental.

As a result of the continuing investigation by the Vermont State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation, detectives determined that the crash was the result of an intentional act by Christine Billis.
Christine Billis was arrested and lodged at the Northern State Correctional Center in Newport and is being held without bail.
Anyone with additional information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Vermont State Police Derby Barracks, 802-334-8881.